Pablo Picasso Ceramic Oiseau No. 86 (Bird No. 86), 1963 A.R. 484 is a sharp and stunning work. Central to the plate is a bright, delicate white bird. Picasso has depicted the bird in profile, and one inquisitive eye peers out. The body is round, and full, and the tail feathers taper off into feathery brushstrokes that look soft and light. Spindly legs reach down to a tan ground, giving a context for this bird. The legs are detailed with black dots, giving them realistic texture. Picasso has managed to capture the essence of the bird – its foot reaches out tentatively in front, with all the grace and purpose that real birds possess.

Our bird contrasts against the warm, reddish brown background, allowing the bird to stand out and steal the show. Picasso’s work in ceramics is remarkable in part for the ways in which he matched the decoration to the form of the ceramic itself. We see this in Oiseau No. 86 with the body of the bird occupying the most central divot of the plate – which is already a round space. Picasso then spreads the remainder of the bird across the broad plane of the plate, creating a sense of subtle depth.

Created in 1963, this white earthenware clay plate with decoration in engobe (white, yellow, black, pink) and enamel under partial brushed glaze, pink patina is inscribed on the back “EDITION PICASSO” and “MADOURA.” Numbered from the edition of 150.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Pablo Picasso Ceramic Bird No. 86 (Oiseau No. 86), 1963 A.R. 484 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices accompanying the final sale of the work):

1. Ramié, Alain. Picasso Catalogue of the edited ceramic works 1947-1971. Madoura: 1988. Listed and illustrated as catalogue raisonné no. 484.

2. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.